How Buyer’s Agent Commissions Work in Alberta

Buying a home in Edmonton is exciting, but the behind-the-scenes of real estate fees can be confusing. One of the most common questions I hear is: “Who pays the buyer’s agent?”

Here’s the Straight Truth About Buyer Agent Commissions in Alberta

In most transactions, it’s the seller who pays the commission—both to their own agent (listing agent) and to the agent representing the buyer (buyer’s agent). That means you, the buyer, typically don’t pay anything directly for professional representation.

But if you call the agent on the sign—the listing agent—you’re not getting a deal. You’re just giving up your right to representation.

What Happens When You Call the Listing Agent?

The listing agent is hired to represent the seller. Their goal? Get…

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Why Full Disclosure Matters When Selling Your Home

You're ready to sell your Edmonton home. Maybe it's a property you loved, maybe it's been a rental, or maybe you're finally upgrading. Whatever the reason, one thing remains critical: what you disclose to potential buyers can make or break the sale—and your legal safety.

What Is Disclosure?

Disclosure means revealing known material facts about your property. This includes things like water damage, foundation issues, renovations without permits, prior insurance claims, or anything that could affect the property's value or safety.

In Alberta, while it's technically a "buyer beware" province, sellers are still obligated to disclose known latent defects—issues that aren't visible or discoverable during a regular home inspection. If you knowingly…

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Commission Models for Selling Your Edmonton Home – REALTOR® Guide

Understanding Commission Options When Listing a Home

There’s more than one way to pay your REALTOR®, but not all methods are created equal. Here's what you need to know:

1. Performance-Based Model

This model ensures your REALTOR® only gets paid after you’ve accepted an offer and the buyer has taken possession. It means your agent is motivated to get you the best price and service possible—your success is their success. This commission amount is negotiated at the onset between the seller and the agent.

2. Flat Fee or “Mere Posting”

This option asks you to pay upfront, regardless of whether your home sells. Need staging, photography, or negotiation help? That’s extra. Plus, many sellers forget they’re still expected to pay the buyer’s agent…

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Why You Need a REALTOR® to Sell Your Edmonton Home – Top 10 Reasons

Selling a home isn’t just about square footage and comps—it’s emotional. You’ve built memories here. Every creak in the floor and corner of the kitchen holds a moment. So why risk selling it alone?

Here are 10 reasons why hiring a REALTOR® to sell your Edmonton home is more than just a smart move—it’s essential:

1. Emotional Anchor: REALTORS® keep you grounded when emotions rise. They offer calm, experienced advice when stress peaks.
2. Market Mastery: They understand real estate listings and local trends, knowing exactly how to price your home for maximum value.
3. Strategic Pricing: Overprice and your house sits. Underprice and you leave money behind. REALTORS® strike the sweet spot.
4. Marketing Firepower: From social media blitzes to…

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DISCOVER YOUR IDEAL HOME IN THE STUNNING COLUMBIA VALLEY

Are you in search of the ideal home nestled in the heart of breathtaking scenery?

Look no further because the Columbia Valley offers just that, with an assortment of homes tailored to blend opulent living with natural beauty.

Right now, we're excited to showcase 14 incredible listings, each uniquely appealing and priced between $500,000 and $700,000. 

Whether you're a family looking for space to grow, a retiree seeking serene landscapes, or a professional desiring tranquility away from city hustle, our selected homes in this picturesque area can fulfill your every need.

WHY CHOOSE THE COLUMBIA VALLEY?

Columbia Valley is renowned not only for its scenic mountain views and lush greenery but also for its vibrant community and quality…

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The Green Shift: Unpacking The Rising Demand For Sustainable Properties Among Millennials And Gen Z!

In the contemporary real estate landscape, a pronounced shift is underway. Increasing worry about escalating energy expenses and environmental degradation has engendered a profound change in buyer preferences, particularly among millennials and Generation Z. This development isn't just a minor detail in the history of market movements; it represents a transformative shift that is altering the core structure of the real estate sector. It's influencing market trends, affecting property values, and revealing new and unprecedented opportunities for investment.

THE SUSTAINABILITY SURGE AMONG YOUNGER BUYERS

Millennials and Generation Z, individuals born from the early 1980s to the early 2010s, represent a significant fraction of the current and…

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SPRING: THE SEASON OF OPPORTUNITY IN REAL ESTATE - HOW TO PRICE YOUR HOME RIGHT!

As the chill of winter fades and the beauty of spring emerges, the real estate market experiences its own form of renewal. Spring has long been considered the prime season for buying and selling properties. This peak period brings an influx of eager buyers into the market, making it a critical time for sellers to capitalize on the heightened demand. However, with competition at its zenith, pricing your home correctly becomes the cornerstone of attracting serious buyers and maximizing your sale price.

In this blog post, we're diving into strategies and insights on how to get your pricing right for the spring real estate!

UNDERSTAND THE LOCAL MARKET

Before setting a price, it's paramount to have your finger on the pulse of your local real…

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Curb Appeal in Bloom: Celebrating National Plant a Flower Day

Blooming Homes: How National Plant a Flower Day Can Transform Canadian Real Estate

March 11, 2025 | By Ron Alfred De Guzman, Communications Manager at MaxWell Realty

Picture this: you step outside your front door, and the air is filled with the subtle scent of lavender, while vibrant blooms of coneflowers and tulips line the street. It's not just a daydream—it's the promise of National Plant a Flower Day, celebrated every March 12th across Canada and beyond. This delightful day invites us to dig into the soil, plant a seed or two, and watch as beauty takes root. But it's more than just a chance to brighten our yards—it's a golden opportunity for homeowners, realtors, and brokers in the Canadian real estate market to elevate properties,…

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Leading the Way: Women in Canadian Real Estate on International Women’s Day

Women in Canadian Real Estate: Celebrating Leadership & Innovation | IWD 2025

March 07, 2025 | By Ron Alfred De Guzman, Communications Manager at MaxWell Realty

International Women's Day 2025 spotlights the theme "For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment" – a perfect moment to recognize the powerful impact women are making across Canada's real estate landscape.

At MaxWell Realty, a proudly 100% Canadian-owned company founded in Alberta, we believe diverse perspectives create exceptional outcomes for our clients and communities. As we celebrate on March 8, we're reflecting on progress made and opportunities ahead for women in Canadian real estate.

The Changing Face of Canadian Real Estate

The numbers tell a compelling…

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Real Estate Blog March 2025

Dear Reader,

There’s a Tanzanian proverb, “Little by little, a little becomes a lot,” which can be applied to anything, whether it’s fitness, relationship goals, or developing a new skill. The same can be said for every little improvement you make to your property over time.

The great thing about these e-newsletters is that they are packed with a variety of ideas on how you can improve your home to increase its value, help save you money, enjoy your home more, and live a healthier life. This month’s e-newsletter, for example, features articles about window treatments, how to choose a home security system, and DIY natural cleaners. While these may seem like little things when it comes time to sell, the more improvements you have made to your home…

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